Carer’s Week 5th – 11th June 2023
Carer’s Week is a time to raise awareness for unpaid careworkers. Carer’s Week serves as an opportunity to ensure that unpaid carers receive the recognition and assistance they deserve.
The COVID-19 pandemic had a monumental impact on unpaid carers’ lives – not only because of the increased amount of care that many provided, but because of the far-reaching effect that providing this level of care has had on unpaid carers. Many people also took on new caring responsibilities for their relatives and friends who are disabled, ill or older and who need support.
And now, after three years caring through the pandemic, the cost of living crisis is causing further stress and hardship for carers, who were already dealing with the financial difficulties that often come with caring.
1 in 6 (16%) unpaid carers are in debt as a result of their caring role and their financial situation, increasing to 2 in 5 (40%) for unpaid carers in receipt of Carer’s Allowance. The proportion of carers unable to afford their utility bills has more than doubled since last year – from 6% in 2021 to 14% in 2022.
Carers need to be recognised for the difficulties they are experiencing, respected for all they are doing, provided with information, and given the support they need to care safely.
Volunteer in care or to help carers
We work with a number of charity organisation who are always on the look out to support carers and young carers.
WECIL – Register on this link!
WECIL offer support for disabled people and you can support by volunteering and befriending! Many people suffer with loneliness and this is a great way to show support and create life-long connections with others. Our Befriending service links Disabled adults (18+) or those with long term health conditions with a volunteer ‘telefriender’. We aim to match people up who have with shared interests or experiences, or by listening to what someone finds important in a telefriend.
Community of Purpose – find out more here
Community of purpose are a Bristol based
deliver three impactful programmes that engage hard to reach groups, enhance community cohesion, improve social mobility as well as celebrating the incredible achievements of young people who have overcome adversity to achieve great things.
With an innovative and pragmatic approach, these projects support communities that are culturally, economically, and geographically disadvantaged.
Link for befriending and volunteering with Bristol gov website: https://www.bristol.gov.uk/residents/social-care-and-health/adults-and-older-people/be-part-of-your-community/befriending-volunteering-and-employment
Here are some local organisations to Bristol for unpaid carer’s support:
- Carers Support Centre: The Carers Support Centre in Bristol provides a range of services, support, and information for unpaid carers. They offer advice, counselling, support groups, training, and respite opportunities. Website: https://www.carerssupportcentre.org.uk/
- Bristol Rethink: Rethinking mental health support for both carers and non-carers, provide a telephone call, practical advice and support groups. Website: https://www.rethink.org/help-in-your-area/services/carer-support/bristol-carer-service/
- Bristol City Council: The Bristol City Council provides information and resources for carers, including advice on accessing support services, benefits, and respite care. They can help carers navigate the local support system. Website: https://www.bristol.gov.uk/residents/social-care-and-health/carers/support-for-carers and for young carers https://www.bristol.gov.uk/residents/social-care-and-health/carers/young-carers/support-for-young-carers
- Bristol and South Gloucestershire Carers: Bristol and South Gloucestershire Carers is an organization that provides support and information for carers in Bristol and the South Gloucestershire area. They offer a range of services, including support groups, counseling, and training. Website: South Gloucester Carer Support
- Bristol Dementia Action Alliance: The Bristol Dementia Action Alliance is a collaborative network that aims to improve the lives of people living with dementia and their carers. They provide support, information, and activities for carers in Bristol. Website: https://bdaa.org.uk/